What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
postnatal
Example
The doctor recommended a postnatal check-up for the new mother and her baby. [postnatal: adjective]
Example
The hospital offers postnatal classes for new parents to learn about caring for their newborn. [postnatal: noun]
postpartum
Example
The new mother experienced postpartum depression and sought treatment from her doctor. [postpartum: adjective]
Example
The hospital provides postpartum care to monitor the mother's recovery after delivery. [postpartum: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Postpartum is more commonly used than postnatal in American English, while postnatal is more commonly used in British English. However, both words are used in medical contexts and are important for understanding the health and well-being of the mother and baby after childbirth.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between postnatal and postpartum?
Both postnatal and postpartum are formal words that are typically used in medical contexts. However, postpartum may have a more serious or negative connotation due to its association with medical conditions such as postpartum depression.
